Sri Lanka 2-day Tour: 3 Amazing National Parks+River Safari

Explore the best of Sri Lanka’s wildlife and lush landscapes in just two days with this well-rounded tour from Bentota. For $395, you get a mix of jeep safaris in Yala and Udawalawe, a guided trek through the UNESCO-listed Sinharaja Rainforest, and a slow boat river safari on Bentota River. What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic wildlife encounters and the chance to see some of Sri Lanka’s most famous animals — leopards, elephants, and an incredible variety of birds and flora.

We love the balance of activities—the thrill of spotting a leopard in Yala, the gentle giants of Udawalawe, and the serenity of the rainforest hike. Plus, the river safari offers a relaxed way to kick off the adventure while enjoying the local birdlife and crocodiles. One small caveat is the additional costs for park entrance fees and jeep hire, which can bump up the overall expense if you’re on a tight budget. Still, for wildlife fans or anyone craving an immersive nature experience, this trip offers excellent value and a chance to sample Sri Lanka’s natural highlights quickly.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers with a respect for wildlife, willing to cover some long driving stretches, and looking for an organized, guided experience that takes care of logistics. It’s also perfect if you’re staying in Colombo or nearby and want a comprehensive taste of Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity without the hassle of planning each visit yourself.

Key Points

• Diverse wildlife encounters: Spot leopards, elephants, and various bird species across three key parks.
• Focused on nature: Includes a rainforest trek, river safari, and safaris in two national parks.
• All logistics handled: Air-conditioned transport, hotel pickup, and guided tours make it stress-free.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees for parks and safaris are extra; plan accordingly.
• Long days: Expect a full schedule with considerable driving time, but rewarding vistas.
• Authentic experiences: Guides are knowledgeable, and the parks are among Sri Lanka’s most celebrated.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Sri Lanka Wildlife & Rainforest Tour

When we first read about this tour, what caught our eye was the combination of iconic Sri Lankan landscapes and wildlife compressed into just two days. It’s a well-structured itinerary that balances excitement and relaxation, offering a genuine chance to witness some of the country’s most famous creatures and ecosystems.

Day 1: From Colombo to Yala via Bentota

Your adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup in Colombo, setting the tone for a hassle-free experience. The first stop is Bentota, where a 2-hour slow boat ride on the river introduces you to the area’s birdlife, crocodiles, and other reptiles. We loved the chance to see wildlife from the boat—it’s a peaceful way to start, with a good chance of spotting crocodiles basking on the banks and monkeys swinging overhead.

Then, it’s a scenic drive through Sri Lanka’s countryside to Yala National Park. The afternoon safari is the highlight—jeeps crisscrossing open plains and thick bush in search of elusive leopards, elephants, deer, and even bears. According to a review, the safaris are “truly breathtaking,” and the elephants are especially plentiful near Udawalawe, which we’ll visit the next day. The 4-hour guided safari in Yala is a chance to see some of the densest leopard populations in the world, which is a big draw for many travelers.

After the safari, you’ll settle into a hotel near Udawalawe for the night. The hotel can be comfortable, offering a good base after a long day of travel and wildlife spotting.

Day 2: Udawalawe and Sinharaja — Nature in Motion

The second day begins early with a jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park. Here, the focus is on elephants, which are known to be relatively shy in the open, but Udawalawe’s reservoir attracts herds of up to 250 elephants. One reviewer highlighted the experience, noting that “many elephants are attracted to the park because of the Udawalawe reservoir,” making it easier to spot these gentle giants.

Following this, you’ll head to Sinharaja Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided trek offers insight into Sri Lanka’s biodiversity hotspot, filled with rare birds, insects, and lush plant life. Many travelers find the rainforest to be a refreshing contrast to the open parks—a dense, vibrant, and alive ecosystem. The guide helps you spot and identify different species, making it both educational and awe-inspiring.

After the rainforest, you’ll return to Colombo, having experienced a full spectrum of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Practical Details: Transportation and Costs

The entire journey is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, which makes logistics much easier. The group is private, meaning you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers, and the guide speaks English.

However, a key consideration is that entrance fees for parks and safaris are not included, which can significantly increase the overall cost. Reviewers note that these additional costs, along with jeep hire, aren’t part of the initial price, so budget accordingly. Still, the value comes from the expert guides, the access to top parks, and the convenience of organized transportation.

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What You Need to Know Before You Book

Travelers should bring essentials like hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent. Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing—Sri Lanka’s climate can be warm and humid, especially during the safaris.

Note that this tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, as it involves a good deal of walking and vehicle rides in rugged terrain. Also, respect wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and following guides’ instructions.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

One traveler shared, “The safaris in Yala and Udawalawe are truly breathtaking, especially the elephants in Udawalawe,” highlighting how impactful these encounters can be. The guide was described as “very nice”, though some noted that English language skills could be better, which might affect communication.

The river safari was appreciated for its relaxing pace and wildlife sightings, while the rainforest trek added a satisfying variety of scenery and flora. The accommodations were described as comfortable, with one reviewer mentioning staying right near the park entrance, which minimizes early morning travel.

The Value Proposition

At $395, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Sri Lanka’s wild side in a manageable time frame. When factoring in the guided safaris, transportation, and accommodation, it’s a value-packed option for wildlife lovers or those wanting an authentic experience without the hassle of organizing each component separately.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see big game and lush forests in Sri Lanka. It’s ideal if you prefer an organized, guided approach that takes care of logistics and maximizes your chances of wildlife sightings. If you’re comfortable with long driving days and ready for some early mornings, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also a good choice for those based in Colombo or nearby, looking for a short but rich nature escape. However, if your focus is on cultural sites or relaxation, this tour’s emphasis on wildlife and ecosystems might not resonate as strongly.

The Sum Up

For those who love nature, wildlife, and the outdoors, this 2-day Sri Lanka tour delivers a well-rounded adventure. From the serene river safari to the thrilling safaris in Yala and Udawalawe, you’re guaranteed memorable encounters with elephants, leopards, and a host of bird species. The inclusion of a rainforest trek adds diversity and a chance to appreciate Sri Lanka’s biodiversity at its finest.

While the costs for park entry and safaris are additional, the convenience and access provided make this a worthwhile package—especially for wildlife enthusiasts. The guides are knowledgeable, and the scenery is stunning—expect plenty of “wow” moments.

If you’re after an action-packed, authentic experience that gives a taste of Sri Lanka’s natural riches in a short time, this tour is an excellent pick. Just be prepared for some long days and extra costs for park fees, but rest assured, the memories will be worth it.

FAQ

Are the park entrance fees included? No, the tour price does not include entrance fees for Yala, Udawalawe, or Sinharaja, nor the jeep hire fees. These are payable separately.

Is this tour suitable for children? It is not suitable for children under 6 years old, and participants should be comfortable with outdoor activities and long drives.

What should I bring? Pack a hat, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, and comfortable clothing. Rain gear is advisable during the rainy season.

How long are the safaris? Each safari in Yala and Udawalawe lasts about 4 hours, with the river safari lasting approximately 2 hours.

Is the tour private or shared? The tour is conducted as a private group, offering a more personalized experience.

Will I see leopards? While sightings are not guaranteed, Yala is known for its high leopard population, so chances are good.

What is the level of physical activity? Expect some walking during the rainforest trek, but most activities are vehicle-based safaris.

This 2-day Sri Lanka tour packs a lot of action into a short trip, making it a compelling choice for nature lovers wanting an authentic glimpse of the island’s wildlife and landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned safari veteran or a first-time visitor eager for adventure, this trip offers genuine encounters and the chance to see some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic animals in their natural habitats.

You can check availability for your dates here: